Talbot Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Talbot Dam, located in Edwards, Missouri, is a privately-owned structure that was completed in 1971 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam is an earth-type structure with a buttress core, standing at a height of 30 feet and offering a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet. Situated on the TR to Starks Creek, the dam serves to create a surface area of 8 acres and drain a watershed area of 130 acres.

Despite its recreational focus, Talbot Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, although its condition assessment is currently marked as 'Not Rated'. The dam does not fall under state regulation, permitting, inspection, or enforcement, with no established emergency action plan in place. While the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness are unclear, the structure remains a valuable resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates in the region.

Overall, Talbot Dam offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and man-made infrastructure, providing an inviting space for recreational activities while also posing potential risks due to its high hazard potential. As a privately-owned entity with limited state oversight, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resource management and environmental stewardship in the Hickory County area of Missouri. Its rich history and unique design make it a point of interest for those passionate about water resources and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR TO STARKS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

130

Nid Storage

128

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.